Biopsychosocial Therapy

Theory: Biopsychosocial Therapy

Therorist: George Engel

Focus: The biopsychosocial approach emphasizes values that encourage patients to take charge of their own health, be sensitive to their body’s changing patterns, and recognize symptoms of illnesses at an early stage. Physical and mental disturbances can be seen as opportunities for personal growth and transformation. (Austad, 2009) It is a way of looking at the mind and body of a patient as two important systems that are interlinked.

Strengths: Research shows that mind-body interventions have positive effects on psychological functioning and quality of life. (Austad, 2009)

Weakness: The patient has to invest and believe in the treatment and work at it at home.

Techniques: Although not a single system of core values, attitudes, perspectives, and practice tools the cornerstones of biopsychosocial interventions are; Stress management based on relaxation response, learning theory, and cognitive restructuring, Health promotion and prevention, Self-management, and Social support.

Personal example: My youngest son was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder when he was in the 5^th grade. He was very anxious about going to school and it got in the way of his learning. He went to see a psychologist and he taught him some relaxation techniques he could do before he went to be. He would start with his feet and work his way up his body. He would squeeze or tighten a body part and then relax it and use deep breathing techniques. If nothing else, it helped take his mind of being anxious before he went to bed and he fell asleep faster.

References:

Austad, C. (2009). Counseling and Psychotherapy Today, New York: The McGraw-Hill

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